"Villa de Leiva" Top 5 Page for this destination Villa de Leiva by elsadran

Plaza Mayor at sunset

The main square is the most impressive place. It's absolutely empty and vast. Instead of giving you a negative feeling of solitude and abandonment it gives you a feeling of peace and freedom. The air is pure blowing above the precious whitewashed colonial style houses. The landscape with the verdant slopes of the surrounding mountains embraces the city like a hug of nature. The cobbled streets are happy to sound the footsteps only of human feet and horses. Very few vehicles are permitted. The town has survived the uncontrolled destructive massive constructions.
All the buildings are white with dark green or brown doors, windows and balconies. This uniformity is not boring. It's harmonic and respectable. The town looks like a beautiful maiden happily expecting her wedding; thousands of bougainvilleas, roses and geraniums adorning her white dress!

flowers everywhere!

Most of the houses have wooden balconies, red tiled roofs, and the usual courtyards common in the colonial houses. Very charming!
Beautiful hiking, cycling or horseback riding around is possible although the city is inviting you to spend your time with her. Walk in the narrow, clean streets, browse at the quality shops and have a look at the museums. Enjoy a delicious meal watching the city colours change in the sunset! Or even learn some Spanish! Why not?
There are several good hotels and restaurants at very affordable prices. That is an average of 20$ per person for a big meal.
It's 200 kms away from Bogota. Only a 4 hour bus ride.